WiLL iLLa: Music Needs To Reflect The Growth Of The Artist

“The older you get the more wisdom you gain. Take that and implement it into the music.”

Check out the interview with WiLL iLLa exclusively on Skilly Magazine Online.­­­­

Skilly: Where did this all start? Tell us about your journey in the entertainment business.
WiLL iLLa: Music has always been a part of me, even before I was born. It truly started in 2006 while I was in high school. I was the guy who would freestyle or rap during riots in school. From there it transitioned into premeditated rap battles, you know dissing cats in school about their gear, relationship, problems, etc. In 2010 while I was in college, that was the year. I heard too much “you should rap.” Then I went from there.

What would be your biggest piece of advice for the young kids out there trying to do what you do?My biggest, no, my greatest advice to these young minds is to discover and figure who you are. This music shit challenges and changes you. As a younger person you have no idea of all the shadiness and hard work it takes. Go viral, get your image out, but live life. Love and discover yourself and your music will speak on that; being real.

What are some of the hardest challenges and tasks in your position?Honestly, all my challenges have nothing to do with music. This falls back on the last question. The older you get the more wisdom you gain. Take that and implement it into the music. You have to be smart and dedicated. Take care of your credit whether you make it in the music industry or not, great credit enables you to do whatever.

We all know the entertainment business is very tough, but what do you find is the best way to promote and advertise your music?The best way to promote and advertise is to engage with people one on one and invest in yourself. No one can push and support you harder than you.

Tell us about your city. How are the artists and the fans?I love Milwaukee. It’s rough, it really is. Not to talk down on anyone, but it’s a crabs in a bucket game. There’s so much talent but not much love. Once you establish yourself and continue to push then they ride the wave. To all my fans and followers, I appreciate them to death.

Where do you see yourself a year from today?I see myself a year from today more successful than I am now. I do music for the love of it. I love getting people amped. I love killing a bass line. In my real life there are zero wants. I’m building. Real estate, savings, investments, it doesn’t matter, I’m going to get the most out of my life until I expire.

Who and what were your biggest inspirations? Who do you look up to in today’s world?Number one is Jay Z. Eminem and Curren$y are in my top 3 as well. I pay respects and have so many artists in my music rotation. As of today I keep The Internet, Spitta, and Cole in rotation. I’m heavy on 90’s rap. You catch me in traffic, 90’s cuts are being played at maximum volume.

How do you feel about the music coming out today? Do you like it?Honestly, there is a lot of good and or great music coming out today. I’m not with this new mumble rap and music missing substance. I understand I’m getting older and things change, but I feel like dumbed down music should not be the highlight of rap.